Is it worth repairing a pressure washer?

Usually yes for a small fix and no for a big one. A clogged nozzle, a dirty screen, stale fuel, a spark plug or a filter are worth fixing on almost any machine. A worn pump or a freeze-cracked pump head on an older, low-end machine is where the repair estimate can rival a new one. Get the estimate in writing, check the warranty, and compare it with a comparable new machine before you decide.

Fix it when the cause is small

Many dead pressure washers are not dead. Simpson's troubleshooting table lists a clogged nozzle, a clogged inlet screen, a long hose and the choke position among the causes of low pressure, and an empty tank, a closed fuel valve or low oil among the reasons an engine will not start.^[1] Those cost nothing to fix. How to fix a pressure washer that will not build pressure walks through them.

Fuel is the next most common. Alcohol-blended fuels attract moisture, which leads to separation and the formation of acids during storage, and acidic fuel and gum deposits can damage the engine's fuel system, according to Simpson.^[1] Penn State Extension says seasonally used engines are especially prone to difficulties with ethanol-blended gasoline.^[2] A machine that sat with old fuel is usually worth a carburetor clean, and cheaper to fix than to replace.

Check the warranty before anything else

A machine bought in the last few years may still have coverage on the part that failed. As one example, Simpson's commercial limited warranty covers the high-pressure pump for five years from the date of purchase and the frame for ten.^[1] Its accessories, including nozzles, hoses and spray guns, are covered for ninety days.^[1] The engine is covered separately by the engine manufacturer.^[1]

Read the exclusions too. The same warranty does not cover freeze damage, normal wear, or damage from repairs or alterations performed by non-factory authorized personnel.^[1] If a warranty claim is possible, call the manufacturer before paying a shop.

Think twice when the pump is the problem

The pump is the most expensive part. Simpson says water left in the pump during freezing weather will cause severe damage.^[1] Packing, seals and a cracked pump head all need the pump opened. On a machine that is several years old and out of warranty, ask the shop for the pump repair price in writing, then compare it with a comparable new machine, which usually comes with a fresh warranty.

A few other signs point toward replacing: more than one major part failing at once, a frame or housing that is cracked, and parts that are no longer available for your model.

How to decide

Ask each shop for a written, itemized estimate that separates diagnosis, parts and labor, and what warranty they give on the repair. Then ask what a comparable new machine costs. If the repair is a small fraction of that and the machine otherwise runs well, repair it. If it is close, replace, unless the machine is a heavier unit that you cannot easily get a replacement for.

Whichever you choose, protect the next one. Simpson recommends adding a fuel stabilizer to gasoline for storage,^[1] and treating the pump with an antifreeze solution before winter storage or when freezing weather is expected.^[1]

Stop and call a pro if

• A high-pressure hose or fitting leaks. Simpson says never to touch a leak in a high-pressure hose or fitting and never to attempt to repair a high-pressure hose.^[1]
• The pump leaks water or oil. That is a shop repair.
• The engine still will not start after fresh fuel, a clean filter and a new plug.
• Fuel is leaking from the tank, line or carburetor. Do not run the machine.

Getting help in Virginia

For cost drivers and how to compare quotes, read how much pressure washer repair costs in Virginia. You can also browse small engine repair answers or find local small engine shops.

When you are ready, describe the machine and local shops can quote the repair.